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Greater Des Moines Partnership Celebrates Economic Impact Awards

On September 17, 2025, the Greater Des Moines Partnership will proudly recognize six exceptional companies during the much-anticipated Economic Impact Awards at the Iowa Events Center. This annual event aims to highlight businesses that have made substantial contributions to the regional economy through measures such as capital investments, innovation, and job creation, underscoring the vital role of local enterprises in driving growth.

Recognized Companies and Their Impact

This year’s Economic Impact Awards honors the following outstanding businesses:

1. Coviance – Winner of the Jennings Kallen Advisors Entrepreneurial Award. Established in 2015 and based in West Des Moines, Coviance has quickly made a name for itself as a leader in home equity lending. With a workforce of 75 employees—80% of whom live in Iowa—Coviance offers an innovative lending experience through its proprietary Collateral Decisioning Engine™. Its acclaim includes being recognized as an Inc. Power Partner in 2023 and multiple appearances on the Inc. 5000 list.

2. Excell Brands has been a staple in the national market for over 45 years, headquartered in Des Moines. With a recent expansion of 300,000 square feet, Excell Brands enhanced its shipping capacity while generating an additional 50 jobs to its workforce of nearly 300. The company services over 40 retailers, showcasing a diverse portfolio that includes trading cards and collectibles, reaffirming its commitment to the Greater Des Moines community.

3. ITA Group – As a fully employee-owned agency, ITA Group recently expanded its global headquarters in West Des Moines from 90,000 to a massive 152,000 square feet, coupled with additional space under construction. This multi-million-dollar investment is set to foster collaboration through state-of-the-art workspaces, daycare facilities, and green spaces for over 500 local employees. The agency not only elevates Des Moines to an international stage but also promotes regional economic growth.

4. MidAmerican Energy Company proudly serves over 1.6 million customers across four states, focusing on reliability and sustainability with electric rates 44% lower than the national average. Their GreenAdvantage® program achieved a remarkable milestone by supplying 100% carbon-free energy to Iowa customers in 2024, showcasing their commitment to community development and economic stability in Greater Des Moines.

5. Musco Lighting, a global leader specializing in sports and infrastructure lighting, is recognized with the Strategic Headquarters Investment Award. The company’s significant investment in a 74,000-square-foot renovation has led to increased capacity and innovation. Musco boasts over 1,400 employees in Iowa and continuously works towards community impact and workforce expansion.

6. Osmundson Manufacturing Company has been a hallmark of precision and innovation in Iowa's manufacturing sector for over 120 years. With an eye toward future growth, Osmundson plans an expansion at its Perry headquarters, supported by the State's High-Quality Jobs Program, further strengthening its commitment to the evolving agricultural industry in the Midwest.

A Celebration of Achievement

Now in its 43rd year, the Economic Impact Awards serve to celebrate those companies that continue to invest in their communities and create high-quality jobs, thereby enhancing local quality of life. As part of the larger Regional Summit, this event unites business and civic leaders to discuss future opportunities for area growth and prosperity. As the community gathers on this special day, there is an overarching sense of pride and optimism about the road ahead for Greater Des Moines.

For those interested in attending the Regional Summit, registration can be completed through The Partnership’s official website. Through efforts such as these awards, the Greater Des Moines Partnership champions economic development and enhances the quality of life in the region while encouraging collaboration and innovation.

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership

The Greater Des Moines Partnership serves twelve counties in the Greater Des Moines area, representing a coalition of businesses and partners dedicated to economic and community advancement. With a robust network of over 400 investors and 7,200 members across the region’s chambers of commerce, The Partnership plays a crucial role in advocating for growth, job creation, and encouraged collaboration to ensure the long-term prosperity of the region. With a strong mission and vision, they work tirelessly to bolster Greater Des Moines as the premier destination for business and quality living.